Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake Recipe

Get ready to indulge in a classic dessert with a joyful twist: the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake. This beautiful cake layers moist, tender vanilla cake with clouds of sweet whipped cream and bursts of juicy, macerated strawberries that make every bite a celebration of freshness and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a slice of sunshine, this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is bound to become your new favorite showstopper that brings smiles all around.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is surprisingly simple thanks to a handful of carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the perfect balance of tender crumb, creamy richness, and bright fruitiness that makes this cake unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the cake, keeping it tender yet sturdy enough for layers.
• Baking powder: Ensures the cake rises nicely for that light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors to create depth in the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Adds rich, creamy flavor and moistness when softened and creamed well.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake layers and the strawberry topping perfectly.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and richness while helping to bind everything together.
• Vanilla extract: A crucial aromatic that elevates the cake’s flavor notes beautifully.
• Whole milk: Adds moisture and tenderness that make the cake soft in every bite.
• Heavy cream: The base of the whipped cream filling, beautifully rich and airy when whipped.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream smoothly without graininess.
• Fresh strawberries: The star of the dish, providing vibrant color and juicy sweetness for the topping.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the strawberries, balancing their sweetness and enhancing flavor.
• Strawberry jam: Optional but gives a glossy, professional finish to the top layer.
• Edible flowers and fresh mint leaves: Optional decorative touches that add charm and freshness.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. Mix together your dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and salt—to ensure even rising and seasoning. Then cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy; this step is key to a tender crumb. Add eggs one at a time with vanilla to create a smooth batter. Alternate folding in the flour mixture and milk to keep the batter light. Pour evenly into your pans and bake for about 28-32 minutes, testing with a toothpick to confirm doneness. Let these layers cool completely before assembling, which prevents your whipped cream from melting prematurely.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

The magic of a Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake lies in the juicy, flavorful strawberries. Toss your sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice to macerate them—this process softens the berries and draws out their natural juices, creating a syrupy sweetness that will soak beautifully into the cake layers. Let them sit for 20 to 30 minutes to maximize flavor extraction and juiciness.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Filling

Chill your mixing bowl and beaters beforehand for optimal whipping results. Beat your cold heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you reach stiff peaks—a consistency firm enough to hold its shape but still airy and luscious. This whipped cream is what brings the light, creamy contrast to the sweet and tender cake layers.

Step 4: Assemble the Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Begin your assembly by placing one cooled cake layer on a pretty serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream evenly over the top, then pile on the macerated strawberries, letting some of their syrup pool deliciously over the cream. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process with whipped cream and strawberries. For an extra touch of shine, lightly drizzle strawberry jam over the top—it creates a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 5: Decorate to Impress

This is your moment to get creative and make the cake your own. Garnish the top with whole strawberries, scatter edible flowers like daisies for a whimsical effect, and tuck in some fresh mint leaves to add a pop of green and a refreshing aroma. Your Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake is now a centerpiece that’s ready to wow guests and family alike.

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake

Garnishes

Garnishes truly elevate the experience of this cake. Fresh whole strawberries add a rustic, homey appeal, while edible flowers provide an elegant, delicate touch. Fresh mint leaves brighten the pallette with their color and subtle fragrance. These small details make every slice feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake pairs wonderfully with simple, light accompaniments that don’t compete with its flavor. A fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream can round out the dessert experience beautifully, giving guests a pleasing contrast of textures and temperatures.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to offer a twist on the traditional slice, try serving the cake in individual glass trifle cups layered with extra strawberries and whipped cream for a casual yet elegant presentation. You can also serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a splash of sparkling rosé for grown-up celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain the whipped cream’s freshness and prevent the strawberries from sogginess. Consuming within 2-3 days will ensure the best taste and texture.

Freezing

While freezing whole assembled cake isn’t ideal due to the whipped cream and fresh strawberries, you can freeze the baked cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw fully in the fridge before assembling and frosting.

Reheating

Since this dessert is all about cool, creamy, and fresh elements, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy chilled to keep that refreshing, light sensation with each bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones; just thaw them completely and drain excess liquid to avoid soggy cake layers.

How do I keep the whipped cream from deflating?

Make sure your cream and tools are very cold, and whip until just stiff peaks form. You can stabilize the whipped cream by folding in a bit of mascarpone or cream cheese for longer-lasting hold.

Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?

Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries can add a delightful variation to the cake and still provide that fresh, fruity punch.

Is there a way to make the cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup to achieve similar results.

How far in advance can I assemble the cake?

For best results, assemble the cake on the day you plan to serve it to keep the whipped cream fresh and the strawberries juicy. If needed, you can assemble the night before, but keep it refrigerated and covered well.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Strawberry Shortcake Layer Cake inspires you to bring a little extra sweetness and joy to your table. It’s a rewarding dessert that feels both nostalgic and special, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to dive in and customize it with your favorite touches — this cake is as versatile as it is delicious. Happy baking!